Barefoot bridge walkers want the need for changing areas noticed

Disability rights campaigners will cross the Tay Road Bridge in their bare feet to raise awareness of the need for more changing places in Dundee.

Jennifer Wilson, whose petition calling for more areas in Dundee city centre has attracted more than 2,000 signatures, will join campaigners to take part in the three-mile shoeless trek.

Jennifer, whose three-yearold daughter Lacey suffers from a bowel and bladder condition, will be joined on her walk by Councillor Lynne Short and members of disability charity Pamis.

“It will be good to raise more awareness,” Jennifer said.

“I know there are plans for more, and for Dundee house to be refurbished, but I still feel we are needing a changing place with evening and weekend access, as do the public I’ve spoken to.

“I’m looking forward to it and it will be good exercise, but I think I will have my foot spa out after the walk.”

Ms Short said: “When I did the walk with the councillors over the bridge last Saturday I thought of walking over barefooted with Jen.

“Someone said it’ll be a bit like sandpaper on my feet, but if you want to make a difference, it’s not always pleasant.

“It’s all about raising awareness and trying to show that there is a need in Dundee city centre for additional changing places toilets.

“There are five or six of us doing it altogether.”

Both Lynne and Jennifer are continuing discussions with city centre businesses in relation to the creation of a 24-hour city centre changing place for disabled people.

To view Jennifer’s petition visit www.change.org.